Annapurna. Italian manufacturer of knitwear in cashmere, cashmere-silk and fine natural fibers. The firm was established in Prato, Tuscany, in 1978 by Aida Barni, after the birth of her fourth child from her marriage to Pierluigi Galli, one of the world’s leading experts on spun yarns.
One half of the production is exported to Germany, Austria and Switzerland, countries in which the company is the market leader. The rest is sold in Italy, France, Japan and the U.S.
The brand name recalls the mountains of Kashmire and the peak of Annapurna, more than 26,000 feet and climbed for the first time by a Japanese team composed only by women.
The brand is famous also for Cashmere, an invaluable book. It was published for the first time in 1986 and reissued in 1997, one of whose authors is Pierluigi Galli. Printed also in French, English and Japanese, the book is an international reference work for technical schools, trade buyers and consumers. The brand’s success is due to its fine manufacturing techniques and expert finishing.
Collections – Annapurna
Annapurna’s collections are offered each season at the company’s Milan showroom at via della Spiga, 46.
The philosophy of the firm is based on the work of skilled craftsmen and attention to detail. Additionally the use of exclusive colors (like midnight blue, tourmaline, slate green, dry moss) makes the brand unique. There is a lasting commitment to customer service, and to clothes that suit Italian taste and are highly fashionable.
From 2000
In 2000, the president of the Republic of Italy, Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, named her a Cavaliere del Lavoro. Aida Barni also received the La Città delle Donne (City of Women) award and was given the keys to the city of Prato.
